The buzz is back.
After a few seasons in which the networks struggled mightily (and futilely) to get the attention of viewers, this fall has seen a massive surge of attention for a slew of young series. And in many cases -- though not all -- the hype has been matched with equally impressive ratings.
But while Nielsen numbers are still incredibly important to a show's long-term survival, both broadcast and cable networks are increasingly interested in how series are rating in the pop culture as well as in the overnights. With out-of-the-box hits harder to come by, networks know they need to be more patient with shows than in the past.
Strong buzz is a good way to figure out what's clicking with audiences.
No longer limited to critical reviews and magazine stories, TV buzz is just as likely these days to come from the blogosphere or social networking sites such as Twitter or Facebook. How a series performs on Hulu or iTunes also can give executives a hint of whether series are starting to break though.
With that in mind, TheWrap has come up with a six-pack of series (most new, a few returning) that are delivering the biggest and deepest buzz of the fall season. Plenty of shows have better ratings and deliver more ad revenue -- but these are the ones getting people to talk about them on a regular basis.
Think we missed a worthwhile contender for the Buzz List? Sound off in the comments section below.
GLEE
(Fox)
Why it's buzzworthy: Because it's lived up to the amazing hype Fox has created for it. While some insiders thought the network was crazy to bow this show after "American Idol" last spring -- four months before the actual series premiere -- it turned out to be a brilliant strategy.
By giving viewers a taste of what was ahead, Fox allowed a fan base to grow up around "Glee" over the summer. Die-hard fans spent the summer tweeting and texting their devotion to various cast members, building up buzz about the music and generally serving as boosters for the show.
But even without the amazing marketing, "Glee" had all the makings of a buzz hit: a young, attractive cast of newcomers; provocative and soapy storylines and the "Idol"-like energy that comes from musical performances.
Breakout star: In terms of singing ability, Lea Michele is the clear stand-out. But because she's part of an ensemble loaded with so much talent, it might prove tough for her to break out on her own (until she does a solo album, perhaps).
So that leaves critical darling Jane Lynch. Beloved for years for her character work, Lynch on "Glee" finally gets to be front and center as a star. It's about time.
Ratings vs. hype: Suprisingly well-matched. "Glee" seemed destined to be the classic Nielsen underdog -- beloved by critics and a core viewer based but ignored by the larger public.
